Heavy menstrual bleeding (heavy periods) is also called menorrhagia. It is considered heavy periods when a woman's menstrual flow soaks a sanitary pad or tampon every hour for several consecutive hours, or if her menstrual flow includes large blood clots; or if she bleeds more than 10 days every month. Excessive and prolonged bleeding can lead to iron deficiency, or anemia.

What are the causes of HMB?

Most common cause of HMB is hormonal imbalance. Some diseases such as adenomyosis, uterine fibroids or polyps, as well as contraceptive intrauterine devices (IUD) can cause heavy menstrual bleeding.

How does the Chinese herbal medicine treat HMB?

In Chinese medical healing philosophy, we focus on the harmony between "Qi" (energy flow) and blood (the "basic essence") in order to balance hormones. We believe that the root of HMB pathology is based in three things: Qi deficiency, blood heat, and blood stasis. Excessive physical work or lack of rest can drain the Qi of spleen, which causes it to be unable to hold the blood. Overconsumption of certain "hot" foods such as spicy foods, alcohol and chocolate can also cause the blood to warm. Emotional stress or surgery can lead to stasis of the blood. All of these things can contribute to heavy menstrual flow.

Chinese herbal medicine HMB Formula contains 12 Chinese herbs that work together to tonify the spleen's Qi, cool down the blood and improve blood circulation in the uterus in order to control the menstrual flow.